People and Pop Culture
Spotlight: Amy Sprangers, Seattle Seahawks
Sprangers climbs to VP position with Seahawks
Amy Sprangers grew up on nearby Bainbridge Island and got her degree at the University of Washington, so her roots in the Seattle area go deep. Sprangers started with the Seahawks in 2002 in corporate partnerships before moving to suites in 2004. She’ll have responsibility for both in her new position with the Super Bowl champions. She spoke to staff writer Daniel Kaplan.
■ Age: 39
■ Title: Vice president of corporate partnerships and suites, Seattle Seahawks
■ Previous title: Managing director of suite sales and service
■ First job: At age 6, I made a rate card advertising my gardening services and passed it out to all my neighbors.
■ Education: University of Washington
■ Resides: Seattle
■ Grew up: Bainbridge Island
■ Brand most admired: Nike
■ Favorite vacation spot: Maui
■ Last book read: Last night to my kids I read “A Visitor for Bear”
■ Last movie seen: With my kids: “Frozen”
■ Favorite movie: “Caddyshack”
■ How did you begin working with the Seahawks?
I interned with the Seattle SuperSonics during the ’96 and ’97 seasons in the marketing department while attending the University of Washington. After graduation, I landed my first job at [summer festival] Seafair selling sponsorships and hospitality. During my five years there, I worked closely with a partner of ours who also partnered with the Seattle Seahawks. She made the introduction, and 12 years later here I still sit!
■ How did you get into your position?
I believe in building relationships first. Strong relationships and a passion for the product you are selling result in great business partnerships and, most importantly, lasting friendships. I focus equally on both every day.
■ Describe your responsibilities.
Lead all revenue generation across sponsorship sales, local media rights and suite sales. Create and deliver exceptional programs that measurably grow our business and the business of our partners.
■ Did you always want to work in sports?
No, I wanted to be a seaplane pilot. But working in football is pretty great.
■ What advice would you offer?
Be passionate about what you do and bring that excitement, focus and drive to work every day.
■ Is it tougher as a woman in sports?
I am exceptionally proud to represent our franchise and create lasting corporate partnerships that set the bar. No matter who you are, you need to bring it every day.
